Main menu

You are here

LETTER: Uniforms don't fit every school

The Huron School Board is studying the feasibility of a uniform/restrictive dress code for all students beginning in the 2009-10 sch

Sandusky Register Staff

May 24, 2010

The Huron School Board is studying the feasibility of a uniform/restrictive dress code for all students beginning in the 2009-10 school year. Supporters say uniforms would help bridge socio-economic differences between students, save families money, and create an environment more conducive to learning.

Since I grew up in Huron, I can honestly say that most "socio-economic differences" will still be known by all the students. Come on, this is a small town. Clothing everyone the same does not change their last name, address, personality, athletic abilities or their social or financial status.

Of the people I've talked to, it is the more well-off parents who want uniforms. It relieves them of their "obligation" to purchase those pricey name brands. Do we really need to put what should be a parenting responsibility onto the schools?

I can see uniforms working for larger schools like Sandusky where anonymity can be provided through uniform dress. This is a school system that is dealing with problems at many levels. For Sandusky City Schools, uniforms are serving as an important part of the involved procedure of creating a positive learning environment.

Huron City Schools have recently received the highest state designation of excellence in education. We have happy students, involved parents, great leadership, and strong community support. We already have our formula for success! As they say, "If it's not broken, don't fix it!"

We also need to remember that our troops are not fighting and dying for our freedom in Iraq only to have it glibly and unnecessarily given away in their own country.

Dressing appropriately is a life skill our children need to learn and respect. Students, educators, and parents need to work together to correct what few dress code issues exist. For Huron, uniforms are not the answer.